The GDF's Y-12 aircraft delivering relief supplies to Region 9 (GINA photo)

Residents in Region Nine- Upper Takatu/Upper Essequibo- are to get collateral-free loans from the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) but regional authorities will first have to vouch for their integrity before the cash is delivered.

GBTI, he said, intends to stop disbursing loans in December because by then the immediate impact of the rainy season, which ends in August, would have passed.

Farmers are entitled to loans of a maximum of GUY$350,000 and they will have 36 months to repay.

Tracey explained that the Regional Administration and the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) would be asked to verify that intended borrowers suffered losses as a result of the flood.

“We are going to get the support of the bodies in the Rupununi who can attest to that and who I presume can bring some kind of pressure to honour their obligations if they renege,” Tracey told demwaves.com.

GBTI, he said, would take collateral once it is available. The mostly Indigenous Amerindian farmers have communal lands, while there are a few individuals who own lands.

The collateral-free loans are expected to be provided quickly unlike those that involve the verification of collateral.

The GBTI, which is constructing a building to house its Lethem-branch, is the latest private sector organisation to provide relief to residents there, stricken by now receding flood waters.

“This is a response of what we see happen and we are part of the community and you have to rise to the challenge,” he said.

Agriculture Minister, Robert Persaud was quoted by the state-run Government Information Agency (GINA) as saying that the unsecured loans could be accessed for a range of purposes. Those include agriculture, repairs to property, repurchase of stock including livestock, and the replacement of consumer items such as furniture.

“I think that the fact that we have seen this type of activity and willingness to help and there are other groups too helping on the ground it shows that we are getting the type of national response a concerted and focused response in this regard and I think all this will aid the quick recovery of Lethem and the neighbouring areas,” said Persaud.

Consignments of chemicals, planting materials and veterinary supplies were Thursday night expected to leave Georgetown for Lethem, Annai and Aishalton and other affected areas.

“This is just the first wave in terms of recovery. We will also be sending in additional staff, we have staff posted at critical sub areas, central points that cover a number of areas.